S.T.
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My granddaughter has been diagnosed with viral pneumonia and has been in the hospital since last THursday. The pneumonia is getting a little better but she is still on oxygen. She was given a steroid to help with it. She is still very latharigic but do not know where it is coming from. Ran test for Swine Flu and awaiting the results. When she was first taken to the er we asked about swine flu testing and the er doc said no that it was no different from any other flu and too much paper work so he did not request a test at that time. anyways we are so worried and I was wondering if these symptoms: pneumonia (Viral), fever, no energy, not eating or drinking is something someone else has been through with their child and what was the diagnosis and how long before she feels better. She is such a tiny little thing less than 20 lbs at 2 yrs. (she was a micro preemie) but has lost since being sick. I am also asking for prayers.
Thanks, M.
BIG prayers and get a 2nd opinion.
M. - according to the CDC these are the symptoms of swine flu:
The symptoms of novel H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.
I don't like the answer from your doctor, but I also know that viruses wipe out their little bodies and it often takes several days for energy and appetite to return. Viruses have to run their course - there is no medication for them. My prayers are with you, whatever you decide.
M.,
Your family has every right to request/demand that testing for swine flu be done. Throw the drs. words right back in his face,If "It's like any other flu" then you would like her to be tested that it isn't THAT flu.
It is not just like any other flu. People have not been dying from the type of flu strain that is now commonplace because vaccines were created. Swine flu is very different and has taken enough lives. If they cannot definitively say what that baby has, and, provide a course of treatment to heal her, I would demand that she be tested. If that ER doc is wrong, it's a public health issue, it's his tough luck that he cannot be bothered with the "paperwork"
One of my sons came down with pneumonia as a secondary infection after a cold last year. His symptoms (from the pneumonia) were fever, lethargy, refusing to eat or drink, and struggling to breathe. He was in the hospital for three days, and that was after catching it very early on. He was still pretty wiped out for a few days after coming home, but he regained his energy quickly after that.
Hopefully they will figure out what is going on with your granddaughter soon. I know it's scary to not have answers and not see improvement. Your family will be in our prayers.
Oh M., I am so sorry, my very best to y'all and we'll keep her in our prayers. Please keep in mind that even thought they are educated people, doctors are still human....and can and will make mistakes. Be diligent and don't be afraid to make demands....it may upset them but they will still do their jobs. Just ask questions and if you feel like their answers aren't enough, demand to speak to someone else. And don't stop until you see the doc. Harrass the nurse if you have to. I'm a nurse and it does not bother me a bit to call the doc 3 or 4 times until he finally comes to see the family. They are very busy and need to be reminded sometimes! Best of luck and hope she feels better soon....also, an fyi, my son is 5 yr old and weighs 31 pounds...born with a heart defect and lost alot of weight going through surgeries. stay focused and diligent. It's not harrassing the medical people, it's giving them an income to take care of their families!!! I can't stress that enough. If we had no patients to care for we would have no jobs....
Please remember that you are a customer of this doctor and hospital and can seek any doctor you wish if you are unhappy with his care so far. There are many good doctors.
My prayers are with your grand baby. I'm sure she'll make a full recovery.
M., I can't help with the viral q's but prayers have already gone up and I will continue to pray for healing, patience and strenghth for your whole family. God Bless.
Hi M.,
I agree with these ladies. Keep pushing the doctor and nurses for anything that you deem is necessary! I have had to do this for my 90 year old Dad for 3 years now and it is not easy but it is ALWAYS necessary caring for those you love.
Obviously the doctor thinks the steroid is what she needs for the pneumonia but steroids will also make you lethargic as well so that may be a continuation of a first symptom as a secondary symptom. Also, the body needs to rest in order to fight off infection. The lack of energy is because the body is using her strength elsewhere. This should not be a point of worry...
M., I will pray for your little one. I truly believe God is in complete control and that he only wants what is best for His people. Cling to that!
M.
She could have MRSA-related pneumonia. I would ask them to run a test for it. If the doctor refuses, tell him you've read research that indicates MRSA pneumonia is more prevalent and the testing is inexpensive, therefore you want it. Doesn't sound like swine flu from what you're describing.
I'll pray for you guys, you must be worried sick!
